Clear skies, iconic architecture and perfect stretches of coastline makes Sydney a photographic buffet. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, looking for inspo for your next weekend adventure or just doing it for the ‘gram make sure you add visiting these stunning locations to your to-do list.
Yes, there are the bold, iconic postcard spots we all know and love, but Sydney plays it coy too. Some of these will take a bit more effort to find, so get the map out, book a car, plan a roadtrip and get inspired.
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Bondi Icebergs
Turquoise water, white sand, tanned lifeguards…Bondi is a mecca for surfers, English tourists, yogis – and enthusiastic photographers. The Bondi Icebergs ocean pool located along the Bondi to Bronte coastal path is a favourite subject, contrasting clean modernist design with the rolling waves of Bondi Beach. Dare you to walk past without taking a shot. While you’re there keep an eye out for local surf photographer Aquabumps to pick up some tips!
Bondi Icebergs on the map
2. Sydney Opera House
Okay, we know the Opera House is a pretty obvious choice, but with over 668k posts tagged #sydneyoperahouse we’d say a lot of you agree it’s a jewel in the crown. Started in 1959, the Sydney Opera House took 14 years (and, fun fact, over 1 million Swedish-made roof tiles) to complete, opening in 1973. Arguably the most iconic building in Australia and one of the most recognisable in the world for its dramatic segments, the Opera House is always ready for its close up.
Sydney Opera House on the map
3. Hornby Lighthouse
Set inside the national park at the top of Watson’s Bay the historic Hornby Lighthouse, jauntily dressed in red and white stripes, is a hidden gem. If you’re lucky you can catch it lighting up the night!
Hornby Lighthouse on the map
4. Diamond Bay
For a spectacular cliff face with breathtaking views look no further than Diamond Bay – and you don’t even have to look far, it’s just in Vaucluse.
Diamond Bay on the map
5. The Bondi to Bronte coastal walk
You can’t visit (or live) in Sydney without doing the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk, location of the famous Sculpture by the Sea exhibition. With a steady stream of people jogging, walking, chatting and snapping their way along the 3kms of sweeping coastal views between two of the best beaches in Sydney it can get crowded, so choose your time wisely or be happy to stroll. Sunsets are always a winner here.
Bondi to Bronte coastal walk on the map
6. Sydney Harbour
Name a more iconic duo. We’ll wait.
Sydney Harbour on the map
7. Museum of Contemporary Art
The MCA, located right on the water at Circular Quay, always has something eyecatching to discover with both a permanent collection and a constantly evolving display of contemporary exhibitions. The building underwent renovation in 2012 and is a piece of art in itself. Don’t miss the giant LED arrow by artist Brook Andrew installed at the entrance for an artistic snap.
Museum of Contemporary Art on the map
8. Observatory Hill Park
A green gem and a moment of quiet in the otherwise bustling CBD, Observatory Hill Park offers sweeping views of Sydney city, the harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Observatory Hill Park on the map
9. North Head, Manly
Head out to Manly to get a different view of the city. Jump on the ferry or take a scenic drive around the coastline, then hike to the lookout where you’ll feel like you’re on the edge of the world.
North Head Lookout on the map
10. Carriageworks
Once a railway workshop, now a progressive arts precinct, Carriageworks is a warehouse space full of original elements that give it a gritty, industrial vibe. It plays host to art, dance, food and fashion events year round, with all the exposed brick you need for those urban industrial shots.
Carriageworks on the map
11. Kirribilli
Kirribilli on the map
12. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
Mrs Macquarie’s Chair on the map
13. Muston Park
An unexpected treasure, head here in late Spring or early Summer to catch the blooming Wisteria vines, which turn this archway into a magical, Insta-worthy destination.
Muston Park on the map
14. Woolloomooloo Bay
A scenic stroll across the Botanic Gardens from the CBD will take you to Woolloomooloo Bay, home of the longest timber-piled wharf in the world. The 410m long Finger Wharf is no longer a working dock and now houses a boutique hotel, restaurants and apartments, strikingly refurbished in chic teal and white, but you’ll see Navy ships to the right. Grab a pie from Harry’s Cafe de Wheels while you’re there.
